Has anyone taken this tour while in Dingle and could you tell me about it? Was it worthwhile. What things did you see? Could we tour just as well by ourselves or does it save time and energy to go with a guide? Thanks.

Kam, <BR> <BR>I took one of these tours in April. I was traveling by Bus Eireann, so for me this was a great way to see the Dingle Peninsula. An American couple with a rental car also took the tour and seemed to think it was a good value for them. (It only takes about 2.5 hours and costs maybe 8IRP.) <BR> <BR>There are two tours, one west from Dingle to the Gallarus Oratory and one east to Minard Castle. If at all possible, take the one to the Gallarus Oratory. As I recall, the itinerary was as follows: <BR>- Lord Ventry's Estate: a quick stop to view some Ogham stones <BR>- A fairy fort: old ring fort, viewed briefly from roadside <BR>- Reasc Monastary: one of the few local monasteries that has been seriously excavated. Plenty of time to wander around (it's very small but worthwhile) <BR>- Gallarus Oratory: One of the Dingle Peninsula's prime attractions <BR>- Kilmalkedar: This church is an interesting contrast to Reasc. Again, enough time to wander about. Be sure to check out the tombstones - familiar names like Kennedy and Sullivan don't look so familiar when spelled in Irish. <BR>- Ring Fort (Caerdorgan?): Again, plenty of time to see the substantial remains of this small ring fort. <BR> <BR>The scenery, of course, is incredible (presuming good weather). Mt Brandon is omnipresent, and there are great views of the Three Sisters and the coastline. <BR> <BR>I think it was very useful to have a local guide. Some of the sites are pretty obscurely located, and I had difficulty following our route even with my local map. On the other hand, some of the big sites, like Dunbeg Ring Fort and Slea Head aren't part of the tour, so you'd still be able to explore on your own afterward. <BR> <BR>During the off-season, I think this may be the only tour given. Also, I had to wait a day until enough people showed interest. During the summer you might have the opposite problem. Since Rick Steves includes them in his guidebook and on his package tours, they can be pretty busy during peak season. In either case, best to call ahead. <BR> <BR>The same family also runs a B&B, Kirrara House, which is where I stayed. It's a very pleasant, homey place and I highly recommend it. Again, you may need to plan around Rick Steves. <BR> <BR>Some other Dingle suggestions: <BR>- The local aquarium is small but much more interesting than I thought it would be. Definitely a good way to spend a couple of rainy hours, especially if you're lucky enough to catch shark feeding time. <BR>- There are "dolphin boats" which offer a chance to see Fungi the dolphin. I think a better choice is to take one of the Dingle Bay Eco Tours (both have offices in the Tourist Info Bldg on the dock). The dolphin boats don't leave the harbor, while the "Eco Tours" spend about two hours out on Dingle Bay. There are two tours, one east to Minard Castle and one west to the Blasket Isles. As with Sciuird Tours, availability depends on demand (and weather). I took the eastward tour in perfect weather. I think it cost about 10IRP. <BR>- I haven't seen it mentioned in most guidebooks, but the Connor Pub had some pretty good music. <BR> <BR>Dingle is a great place, and as long as you can avoid Mr Steves trying to sneak people in through the "Back Door", I'm sure you'll love it. <BR> <BR>Dave

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Has anyone done this tour in the last 2 yrs? Has the itinerary or quality changed since 2000?

Did this tour last spring and it was great. We would have spent so much time getting lost and would never have learned as much as we did. Certainly recommend this. It's very small group and lots of information.